Jakarta. Under a fully darkened night sky, runners gathered at the starting line. Some stretched and warmed up, while others stood quietly, focused on the long challenge ahead: completing a 69-kilometer course in the Astra Ultra 69, an ultramarathon that began on Saturday night and concluded on Sunday morning.

Held to commemorate Astra’s 69th anniversary, the event was initiated by Astra Runners, the running community within the Astra Group, as part of the company’s effort to promote a healthier lifestyle among employees.

“Astra Ultra 69 gives meaning to the 69-kilometer distance as a symbol and reflection of Astra’s journey -- one built through consistency and the spirit of togetherness. We created this event as a space to strengthen unity and collaboration among Astra people through a challenging and meaningful experience,” said Astra Chief of Corporate Affairs Boy Kelana Soebroto.

Before taking their first steps, all 69 participants -- made up of Astra Group employees -- underwent heart health screenings supported by Heartology, Astra Group’s cardiovascular hospital. The measure was an important step to ensure each participant understood their physical condition before facing the endurance challenge.

Participants were also required to meet several qualifications, including having completed a full marathon within the past two years.

The Astra Ultra 69 was organized in collaboration with several Astra Group companies, including Heartology, Hermina, Asuransi Astra, and Astra Life. Medical personnel, physiotherapists, and ambulances were stationed at several points along the route as part of Astra’s commitment to participant safety.

As part of the broader celebration, Astra also hosted the Astra Sunday Run on Sunday, featuring a shorter 6.9-kilometer route open to runners of varying fitness levels. The event complemented Astra Ultra 69 with a more inclusive approach to encouraging healthy living.

Through both events, Astra emphasized that a healthy lifestyle can be built gradually, according to individual ability, and maintained consistently. The company said the initiative aligns with Astra’s aspiration of “Prospering with the Nation” while supporting the achievement of Indonesia’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).